MOT

Class 4 Vehicles (Car)

Hundreds of thousands of vehicles pass their MOT test every year with Halfords Autocentre. Our specialist ATA-trained testers can carry out almost all required repairs on site on the same day - and we always quote upfront so no nasty surprises!

Q. How long does an MOT take?

The MOT will take an hour, but may take longer if we need to
carry out any minor repairs. We ask that you arrive at least 5 minutes before your booked time,
but you can leave your car with us any time from the moment we open.

Q. When is my MOT due?

Most vehicles need an MOT check and a new certificate every 12 months once they're 3 years old. If you've forgotten when yours is due you can check it online here:check MOT due date

Q. Can you do class 7 MOTs?

We can test cars (class 4 vehicles), as well as vehicles between 3.0 and 3.5 tonnes, like pickups, vans and transits.
See the full list of centres which carry out van MOTs:
Class 7 MOT centres.

Unfortunately, we are not able to test motorcycles or 3-wheeled vehicles.

Q. What does a car MOT check?

The MOT covers a wide variety of checks to ensure your vehicle is safe and meets environmental standards. See our
MOT test checklist for full details.

Q. How can I ensure my car passes its MOT?

Some of the most common MOT failures are down to small, avoidable factors like tyre pressure, windscreen wipers and light bulbs. By carrying out a few simple checks
before you bring your car in, you could save the hassle of a retest. See our tips on
how to make sure your car passes its MOT first time.

Q. What documents do I need to bring?

If your vehicle is undergoing its first MOT then a V5C vehicle registration certificate (log book) is required, this document is also required
if your vehicle has had a change of registration plate since its last MOT. In all other instances no documentation is required.

Q. What happens if I fail my MOT?

If your car doesn't pass, it's deemed unroadworthy and must have necessary repairs carried out before it is retested. It is illegal to drive your car on the road without a
valid MOT certificate.

Halfords Autocentres will advise you of any repairs that are necessary upfront. Most can be carried out on the same day at the same test centre.

Q. Do I have to pay an MOT retest fee?

If repairs are carried out at the same test centre on the same day, or on the following day at another test centre, we'll carry out a free MOT retest

If your car leaves our test centre and is returned within 10 working days, your MOT retest fee will be half of the initial test fee charged

In all other cases, the charge for a retest is the same as a full test

Q. Can I appeal if my car fails?

If you wish to appeal against an MOT failure, ask for a complaint form at the test centre. You'll receive all or part of your test fee back if your appeal is successful,
but you should not have any car repairs carried out in the meantime as this may affect the outcome of your appeal.